Former Alabama Player Pleads Guilty to Fraud Involving Impersonation of NFL Athletes

A former University of Alabama football player has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to a fraud scheme that involved impersonating professional athletes to secure loans. Luther Davis, who played as a defensive tackle for Alabama, admitted to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft in federal court on Monday.

His co-conspirator, CJ Evins, also pleaded guilty to the same charges. Prosecutors recommended reduced sentences as part of a plea agreement, according to ESPN.

The pair obtained fraudulent loans totaling $19,845,000 between May 26, 2023, and October 25, 2024. They used fake documents, created bogus corporations, and disguised themselves with wigs and makeup to appear as NFL players during loan closings. The men signed paperwork in the athletes' names and deposited the funds into accounts they controlled.

Prosecutors stated that the loans were used to pay off other loan balances and to purchase real estate, jewelry, and watches. The scheme involved appearing on camera at closings to convince lenders of their false identities.

“Using fake documents, bogus corporations, wigs, and makeup, Davis and Evins convinced lenders they were NFL players, obtained millions of dollars in fraudulent loans, and used the proceeds of their crimes to purchase real estate and luxury items." — U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg (New York Post) U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated that the case demonstrates how anyone can be a target of identity theft and that his office will investigate and prosecute such fraud. Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta, said the scheme was built on deception, including impersonating athletes and fabricating credentials, and emphasized the FBI's commitment to addressing financial fraud and identity theft. Davis is scheduled for sentencing on October 8, and Evins on August 4. Both face a maximum of seven years in prison each.”